Basic home electrical wiring and plumbing concepts for everyday household repairs.
40 cards · basic cards · AI-written, checked twice. Edit anything.
- What is the main purpose of an electrical circuit breaker?
- To automatically shut off power when current exceeds safe levels, protecting against electrical fires and shock hazards.
- What does grounding do in an electrical system?
- Provides a safe path for excess electricity to flow into the earth, preventing electrical shock and damage.
- What is a GFCI outlet?
- A ground fault circuit interrupter outlet that detects imbalances in electrical current and cuts power instantly to prevent shock.
- Where should GFCI outlets be installed in a home?
- In kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and any area where water is present or floors are damp.
- What are the three wires in a standard electrical outlet?
- Hot (black), neutral (white), and ground (green or bare copper).
- What should you do immediately if you receive an electrical shock?
- Turn off the power source or break contact with it using a non-conductive object, then call emergency services if needed.
- What is the difference between 120-volt and 240-volt circuits?
- 120-volt circuits power most household items (lights, outlets), while 240-volt circuits power large appliances (dryers, ovens, water heaters).
- What does amperage measure in electrical terms?
- The amount of electric current flowing through a circuit, measured in amps (A).
- Why should you never touch an electrical wire that is sparking or arcing?
- Arcing electricity can jump through the air and cause serious burns or electrocution.
- What is the main water shutoff valve in a house?
- A valve that controls the flow of water into the entire home, used to stop water supply in emergencies.
- What should you do if you discover a water leak inside a wall or ceiling?
- Turn off the main water shutoff valve immediately, then locate the source of the leak and call a plumber.
- What is the purpose of a P-trap under a sink?
- To hold standing water that creates a seal blocking sewer gases from entering the home through drain pipes.
- What are the three main types of residential water pipes?
- Copper, PVC (plastic), and PEX (flexible plastic tubing).
- How do you clear a simple clogged drain without a plumber?
- Try a plunger first, or use a drain snake to remove the blockage, or pour hot water and baking soda followed by vinegar.
- What should you never pour down a drain?
- Grease, oil, paint, chemicals, food scraps, or non-flushable items like paper towels or wipes.